Roots
A native son of Baton Rouge.
Bishop, Dr. Ivory D. Payne is a distinguished pastor, publisher, author, award-winning graphic designer, and statesman whose leadership spans faith, media, and civic life. A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, he is the proud son of Bishop Ivory J. Payne and First Lady Payne. Educated in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System, he is a graduate of Scotlandville Senior High School and pursued studies in architecture and art at Southern University & A&M College.
Episcopal Elevation
Consecrated Bishop in 2023.
In 2023, Bishop Payne was consecrated to the sacred office of Bishop, affirming decades of faithful ministry, visionary leadership, and service to both church and community. His episcopal elevation marked a defining moment — recognizing his ability to lead not only congregations but also conversations that shape culture, policy, and purpose.
Doctorate of Divinity
A historic milestone in theological scholarship.
On November 15, 2025, Bishop Payne achieved another historic milestone when he was conferred the Doctorate of Divinity by the School of the Great Commission Bible College and Seminary. This distinguished honor celebrated his theological depth, pastoral integrity, and lifelong commitment to advancing the Gospel beyond traditional boundaries.
Media & Publishing
A unifying voice for African American excellence.
Bishop Payne serves as Chief Executive Officer and Publisher of The Baton Rouge Weekly Press, LLC, one of Louisiana’s oldest and most respected African American–owned newspapers. He is also CEO of Leaders Publications, producing statewide directories and resources that honor African American excellence and leadership. As President of the Louisiana Black Publishers and Media Association, he is a unifying voice and tireless advocate for equity, access, and authenticity in media.
Creative & Broadcast
Innovative visual storytelling and gospel radio.
An award-winning graphic designer, Bishop Payne has built a career blending creativity with ministry and media, developing innovative visual storytelling for publications, broadcast, and faith-based platforms. A visionary communicator, he is the founder of 247PraiseRadio.co, a Stellar Award–nominated internet gospel radio station that reaches listeners nationwide with gospel music and inspirational programming. He also founded The Praise Reporter, a Christian publication serving Baton Rouge, Columbus (OH), and Jacksonville (FL).
Ministry
An apostolic call to strengthen ministries.
In ministry, Bishop Payne serves faithfully as Assistant Pastor of Greater New Birth Full Gospel Fellowship, under the leadership and spiritual covering of his father. Guided by a clear apostolic call, he seeks to establish, strengthen, and align ministries for Kingdom impact. Throughout his ministerial journey, he has served in the Church of God in Christ, the Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship, the Holy Trinity Full Gospel Baptist Association, The Collaborative Inc., and other faith communities. His preaching is marked by clarity, conviction, and compassion — equipping believers to live with purpose, walk in faith, and lead with integrity.
Author
Unshaken: Ministry Beyond the Walls of Home.
Bishop Payne is also a published author. His book Unshaken: Ministry Beyond the Walls of Home is available on Amazon, inspiring readers to live and minister boldly in every aspect of life.
Statesman
Building bridges between faith and public life.
As a statesman, Bishop Ivory D. Payne stands at the intersection of faith and public life. He is respected for his wisdom, steady leadership, and ability to engage civic, religious, and business leaders with credibility and grace. His influence extends beyond the sanctuary, shaping dialogue around community development, justice, media representation, and moral responsibility. Through the pulpit, the press, his writing, and public service, Bishop Payne continues to build bridges, uplift voices, and leave a lasting imprint on generations to come.
